Jun Ariolo Aguirre, Lezo, Aklan
Updated: July 16, 2010 09:50 AM GMTA parish priest has appealed for an end to the “cycle of violence” that is gripping his province and country, while he prepared a funeral Mass for assassinated councilor Fernando Baldomero. Father Carlos Retorico of St. Isodore in Lezo, Aklan province called on Baldomero’s family and supporters to let authorities handle the case and resist the urge to avenge the killing. “May the cycle of violence end with the Baldomero family,” he said. “I hope supporters of both the victim and his assailants will join the funeral rites on July 17th and pray together for Baldomero.” Baldomero, 61, was shot in front of his 12-year-old son as they prepared to ride their motorcycle to school on July 5. Two men were seen fleeing immediately afterwards. Baldomero’s supporters suspect military involvement, as he had a long, adversarial relationship with them. In 2004, the military brought charges of arson and murder against him, which were dismissed in court. The military, however, suggests that communist groups could be behind the killing, as Baldomero was formerly a prominent Communist Party member and they are known for “purging” their ranks. A spokesperson for Baldomero’s left-wing Bayan Muna - Nation First – party said it was the first documented killing of a political activist since the start of President Aquino’s administration, 16 days ago. An estimated 1,200 activists and journalists have been listed killed since 2001, over 140 of them belonging to Bayan Muna. Police say they expect thousands of mourners, supporters and spectators to gather in Lezo for the funeral Mass and procession to the cemetery. Related reports Claver’s brother appeals for justice for family Detainees’ treatment closely watched United Nations Rapporteur Calls For Churches To Play Greater Role In Monitoring, Preventing Extrajudicial Killings PM10455.1610